The effects that staging a major sporting event can have on an area Essay Example for Free

The effects that staging a major fair payoff give the gate hand on an line of business Essay abridgmentThis advertise leave behind analyse the effects that staging a major feature event layabout have on an area. It leave examine whether events of this surface generate inmost investiture, what different types of investiture that occur and evaluate their lasting value. The reasons for the growth of mutation as a global industry entrust to a fault be discussed in terms of their effect on investment levels.After studying a number of major jazzy events, both within the UK and from other(a) p blinds of the world this report concludes that the extent to which events act as a focus for self-whispered investment depends on the nature of the competition and the size of its audience. foundation garmentThe title of this report isTo what extent do major degenerate events act as a focus for in investment?Before I can begin to explore this doubt in that respect are seve ral terms to defineWhat constitutes a major have event?A major clear event is a competition involving a large number of competitors from a redact of countries, gaining widespread media coverage.What is inward investment?Inward investment implies that, Goods have been brought into initiation which will allow a stream of other goods and services to be produced in the future. (Economics, A New Approach by A.G. Anderton)Key Questions/IssuesMy report will be structured around the key heads shown in the table below. I will gain ongoing conclusions as I explore each question in turn, using case studies covering a cuckold of scales and locations, and draw them together when making my final conclusion.Key QuestionCase Studies employ1) Where does inward investment come from and is it sustainable?A thuss 2004, Sport England, Silverstone, former Olympic games, valet Cup 2002 (Yokohama), serviceman Student Games 1991 (Sheffield)2) Increased investment in degraded events has come ab emerge due to the growth in the importance of sport which has become a global industry. What has caused this growth?World Cup 2002 (Yokohama)3) What different types of investment take place? Do they vary from one sporting event to another?World Student Games 1991 (Sheffield), Silverstone, Athens 2004, World Cup 2002 (Yokohama)4) Are there pillow slips of major sporting events that have not acted as a focus for inward investment? Do these events have anything in common that could explain wherefore the inward investment was less?Embassy World Snooker Championships (Sheffield), BUPA enormous marriage break a substance1) Where does inward investment come from and is it sustainable?To find out where inward investment comes from I will be using the following case studies Athens 2004, Sport England, Silverstone.Athens 2004Athens 2004 balanced budget is 1.962 one thousand thousand Euros. ( call fig. 1 for breakdown). To date Athens 2004 sponsorship revenues have reached approximately 448.1 million Euro in total. This already breaks many previous records as Athens 2004 has covered its projected sponsorship revenues with entirely 7 out of forty potential Sponsors. Athens 2004 decided to have a limited number of sponsors, and to emphasise whole tone rather than quantity. (See fig. 2) (www.athens.olympic.org)Sport EnglandGovernment reinforcement of sport in the UK is done so through an organisation k right away as Sport England. They are a council who meet regularly to consider applications for bread and butter the development of sports facilities. They make their grants from National Lottery Funds and applicants are usually expected to show evidence that their scheme will gather the community as a whole. (www.culture.gov.uk/sport)SilverstoneSilverstone is hoping that is will be able to gain financial support in this however as a report in December 2000 utter Silverstone would probably need to provide other uses for the local community there is no reason wh y the track should not have a velodrome or artificial ski slope there might even be the possibility of a watersport facility.BRDC (British Racing Drivers Club) President, Sir Jackie Stewart wants the political sympathies to underwrite at least half(a) the sum, believing that it is in the best interests of politicians to support the local motor sport industry so jobs and important F1 teams arent driven out of the country to more lovable destinations. (www.octagonmotorsports.com)The redevelopment of Silverstone will be funded by three parties. Firstly by Octagon, the US marketing group that owns the rights to the British Grand Prix for the next 15 familys, Bernie Ecclestones reflexion One management, which handles Grand Prix racings commercial affairs, and the BRDC, which owns Silverstone itself.To investigate whether the inward investment is sustainable I will be using the following case studies Athens 2004, previous Olympic games, World Cup 2002 (Yokohama), World Student Game s 1991 (Sheffield).Athens 2003* The Athens 2004 Olympic Games will leave a legacy to Athens, to Greece and to the world that will perch for generations to come.As Sydney, Atlanta and Barcelona have shown, there are many tangible, long-term benefits to hosting the Olympic Games.For the volume of Greece, the legacy of the 2004 Olympic Games will begin with the economic benefits of drop in upgrades to the pointation infrastructure, telecommunications system, and the environment. These investments will benefit Greece for years to come.They include65,000 saucily permanent jobs120 kilometres of new road290,000 new trees, 11 million new shrubsA New International AirportAn expanded metro systemA new, ultra-modern Traffic Management CentreAn increase in tourismA $1.3 billion boost in public sector revenues, and35% improvement of the quality of the environment* In summarizeition, the skills, expertise and training of the workforce in Greece crossways every sector will be enhanced. The workforce will be called upon to manage large scale complex projects that require integrated planning and slender coordination. The new skills and expertise will be valuable assets surviving the completion of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.Renewed civic pride, a massive surge in volunteerism, and the redress of the Olympic Games to their ancient birthplace will all shape the Legacy of the ATHENS 2004 Olympic Games. When the last medal is awarded, and the Closing Ceremony of the Paralympic Games ends, the dynamism and nitty-gritty of the Games of 2004 will remain. The city of Athens and the surrounding region will have overhauled and upgraded every major sector of the economy, channeled investment, and re-invigorated public life throughout Greece. (www.athens.olympics.org)In the point in time leading up to 2004, Greece will receive $40.23 billion USD from the European Union to improve highways and other infrastructure projects.Previous Olympic GamesSydneyIt was estimated that the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games will add $6.5 billion to the Australian GDP and 100,000 full-time jobs over a 12 year period from 1994-2006.Australia saw an 11% increase in total visitors for 2000. Interestingly, the highest calendar calendar month total (565,000 arrivals) was achieved in December-3 months after the Olympic Games.1.5 million additional transnational tourists are expected to visit Australia until 2006 because of the staging of the Olympic Games. This is estimated to generate an additional $2.7 billion in tourism exports.AtlantaThe Atlanta Olympic Games added $5.1 billion to the Georgia economy.As a result of the 1996 Atlanta Games, spending from out-of-state visitors injected $2.5 billion into the economy.BarcelonaPrior to the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games, Barcelona was ranked as the 16th most popular tourist destination in Europe. By 1999, it had risen to third.The Barcelona Games added $16.6 billion to the Spanish economy between 1986 and 1993.From October 1986 (the month Barcelona won the bid) to July 1992, the general rate of unemployment in Barcelona fell from 18.4% to 9.6%-a drop of nearly 50%.New suburban highways and tunnels reduced downtown traffic by 15 percent.World Cup 2002 (Yokohama)* Since the Dynasty Cup, the opening game of the stadium on March 1st 1998, there has been 9 Japanese national team games, including the Kirin Cup and the Confederations Cup. The stadium, as tumesce as being the home ground of the J Leagues team Yokohama F. Marinos, is likewise the stage of many events each year, such(prenominal) as Kanagawa Yume Kokutai and a 70,000 flock Bz Live Concert. Under the stands we can find the Sports Medical Center, the Sports Community Plaza and the Sports Information Center, which are the core of communication for all sports concerned. The objective of the facilities is to achieve international exchange and to provide health and well being. (www.fifaworldcup.yahoo.com)World Student Games 1991 (Sheffield)* Since the host ing of the World Student Games in 1991, the Don Valley Stadium has continued to be of benefit to the community as a whole. altogether facilities, including the indoor and outdoor tracks are open for public use 7 days a week at the excellent price of 2.70 for adults and 2.10 for children.* The stadium annually hosts the North of England Athletics Association Open Championships in January and is in any case used for various other national athletics competitions and meetings.* The stadium is also home to several athletics clubs the Hallamshire Harriers, Sheffield AC, Sheffield metropolis Striders, Sheffield University AC and Sheffield Hallam University AC. The stadium regularly hosts rugby League, American Football and Football games and is home to the Sheffield Eagles Rugby League Club.Conclusions about Key Question 1* It appears that there are three main sources of investment available to major sporting events. The first and possibly most important of these is sponsorship. Spons ors can be broken down into two distinct categories. there are those sponsors who give money to the event organizers in settle for the rights to use the Olympic name and image on their products and in their advertising. For example Coca-Cola is the official non-alcoholic beverage for Athens 2004. The other kind of sponsor is the sponsor who provides a service or function at the sporting event. They will also benefit from increased media coverage. SWATCH are providing all of the timing and scoring equipment for the games.* Major sporting events appear to have major, long-lasting benefits to the host city and the surrounding area long after the event has taken place. These include the provision of world var. sporting facilities and venues that can be used by the general public and local sportsmen, the creation of new general public services, such as transport links, and the creation of jobs, both directly as a result of the sporting event and jobs created by the encouragement of ne w businesses into the area.Having examined the sources of inward investment I will now investigate why this investment is increasing.2) Increased investment in sporting events has come about due to the growth in importance of sport which has become a global industry. What has caused this growth?* Increased media coverage it is estimated that the final of the World Cup in Yokohama was transmitted live to a worldwide audience of around 2 billion. Sport is now broadcast throughout the world and is one of the main ways in which many fans get access to sporting events, whether through radio, television or the internet.* Sport is an important part of the nations shared experience and values the nations culture. It brings people together either as participants or spectators, build teamwork and community pride.* Participation in sport at an amateur level has increased in recent years. Amateur sport is important to improving quality of life. Sport provides role models for the pursuit of p ersonal excellence. Competitive amateur sport also stimulates broadly based participation in physical activity, leading to remedy health, higher productivity and a stronger social fabric. This has led to increased interest in professional sport, resulting in higher attendance and increased revenue.* Increasing government intervention in sport at a professional level has also increased its importance. Our elite athletes are supported using lottery funding under the World Class Performance Programme by UK Sport and Sport England. Awards have been made to the governing bodies of over 37 sports, ranging from wheelchair basketball to athletics. This enables our expire athletes to improve their performance and win medals in the Olympics and major international competitions. Those athletes at the elite level are also starting to feel the benefits of the United realm Sports Institute. Funded by the lottery, these are centres of excellence where first class facilities and services are av ailable to athletes.This includes sports science, medicine, nutrition and coaching expertise. There are ten centres of excellence in England. Many of the centres have sports-specific roles, for instance most of the elite swimmers use the new facilities at Bath University. Money raised by the National Lottery is also being directed at bringing top events to the UK, such as the World Athletics Championship in 2005. Not only does this give us all the opportunity to watch the best competitors in the world, it is a boost for the country and sports as a whole. (www.culture.gov.uk/sport)Having investigated the reasons for increased inward investment we must now examine how this investment is being used.3) What different types of inward investment take place? Do they vary from one sporting event to another?To swear out this key question I will be using the following case studies World Student Games 1991 (Sheffield), Silverstone, Athens 2004, World Cup 2002 (Yokohama).* If a sporting event is given the responsibility of hosting a major sporting event and their sporting facilities are not already of the required standard to host that event, then investment is needed to redevelop or create them.World Student Games 1991 (Sheffield)Following a sure-fire bid for the World Student Games in 1991, the City of Sheffield undertook a programme to provide world class sports facilities for the City, including an Athletics Stadium with a fully equipped grandstand. The grandstand is in effect a four storey building containing all the support facilities such as changing rooms, as well as an 85 metre indoor track and invest area. (www.sivltd.com/donvalley)SilverstoneOver the next 3 years Silverstone, the home of the British Grand Prix will undergo a $70 million redevelopment, including the improvement of key trackside facilities such as pit garages and competitor accommodation facilities, as well as 1.5 kilometres of new track to improve overtaking opportunities on the circuit. T hese improvements follow speculation that the British Grand Prix could be moved to Brands Hatch and strong criticism from the Head of Formula One Management, Bernie Ecclestone. (www.grandprix.com)* It is also important that facilities available to spectators at major sporting events are of a high standard, as it is the public, in combination with sponsors that generate most money for the organisers.World Student Games 1991 (Sheffield)The Don Valley Stadium, Sheffield has state of the art spectator facilities, including* 1500 lux floodlights to accommodate a full colour spectrum TV (see fig. 4)* A fully electronic timing and results system with photo finish facilities* A huge electronic scoreboard (see fig. 3)* A fully integrated state of the art public address system* Full catering hospitality facilities as well as food and drink concession points.The Stadiums major focal point is its grandstand which holds 10,000 spectators. 15,000 spectators can also be accommodated on the open terracing making the seats capacity 25,000. (See fig. 4) (www.sivltd.com/donvalley)SilverstoneAs part of enormous redevelopment of Silverstone, the old club at the entrance to the pit lane was replaced with a new building that offers ameliorate facilities for club members and their guests. The im insistencyive three-storey building houses a restaurant, bar and club accommodation, as well as pit lane and roof terracing viewing areas. Plans have also been recently announced to greatly improve facilities in the general public viewing areas, including directional signage inside the circuit, catering, retail and modern toilet facilities. This follows on from the successful road development and improved traffic management at this years Grand Prix. (www.octagonmotorsports.com)* The potential for tourism generated alongside major sporting competitions means that a lot of money is invested on improving the appearance of an area before hosting the event.Athens 2004Athens is being transfor med into the host city for the 2004 Olympic Games. An extensive programme of interventions for the aesthetic upgrading of the city, along with the creation of Olympic Celebration sites, will enhance the Games experience for visitors and residents alike. An extensive Urban Regeneration Programme is already underway which will include the development and construction of new pedestrian roads, the redesigning of open public areas, the creation of new green areas (see fig. 5), improved street illumination and the removal of illegal advertising boards. (www.athens.olympic.org)World Cup 2002 (Yokohama)The broadcasting of Yokohamas name throughout the world during the 2002 FIFA World Cup will in itself have been excellent furtherance for the city. Moreover, hopefully it will have had important effects in the area such as the attraction of movement into Yokohama by foreign businesses. Leading up to the games the city worked to improve the urban infrastructure (parks, roads etc.) and to d evelop its human resources and networking through programs keyed by citizen volunteer activities. To bolster ar cheat onments a City gross sales campaign built around the World Cup, with hospitality arrangements to benefit both visitors and residents was established. (www.fifaworldcup.yahoo.com)Conclusions to Key Question 3* I would suggest that the type of investment and thus possibly the level of investment required for a sporting event varies depending on the nature of that event. An event such as the Olympics which encompasses a broad range of sports will obviously require a greater level of investment than a single sport event such as the Football World Cup.* I have been able to identify three key areas of investment. Firstly and probably most important is investment in the provision of sports facilities. Without adequate facilities an event will never be successful. Secondary to this is investment in spectator facilities. The paying public are the main source of revenue for any sporting event, so they need to be fully catered for. If they are unhappy with the service they receive, they wont return. Low attendances would probably render the event a financial failure. commonly the projected revenue from rag sales is incorporated into the event budget (see fig. 1). Lastly but also significant is investment in the surrounding area as a whole. For an event to be successful it is important that the infrastructure is capable of dealing with a large number of people. The image sent out to the rest of the world also has to be considered, as hosting a sporting event puts the area under close media scrutiny. A positive image can encourage new business to the area.Having examined sporting events that have acted as a focus for inward investment and the type of investment that has occurred we now need to see if there are event that have not resulted in investment and the reasons for this.4) Are there examples of major sport events that have not acted as a focus fo r inward investment? Do these events have anything in common that could explain why there was less investment?To answer this key question I will use the following case studies Embassy World Snooker Championships (Sheffield), BUPA Great North Run.Embassy World Snooker Championships (Sheffield)The Embassy World Snooker Championships are held at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, every year in April. For 17 days each year, the largest theatre complex outside of London is transformed into what is recognized as fobs No. 1 venue.Organisers move into the theatre 6 days before the beginning of the championship to prepare the arena. The theatre floor is hollow so a series of jacks have to be put under the two tables, which weigh one and a half tonnes each. The stage is carpeted and the Embassy flim-flam arena is installed complete with press seating, boxes for the BBC commentators and photographers and the TV cameras (see fig. 6). Back stage, the rehearsal room is transformed into an Inte rview Room. (www.embassysnooker.com)The Studio which is also part of the Sheffield Theatres Complex is transformed into a two table practice area and the TV set for the BBC team and front man.The Crucible holds less than 1,000 spectators and tickets are eagerly snapped up by the sports fanatic followers.Why has there been little inward investment?* The size of the auditorium means that the revenue generated by the event is limited. This means there is less money to re-invest in the event and Sheffield as a whole.* The Crucible theatre is only a temporary sports venue for 17 days out of every year. For the majority of the year it is a normal theatre, staging touring and in-house productions.BUPA Great North RunThe BUPA Great North Run is the worlds biggest half marathon, with 47,000 people running from Newcastle city centre to south Shields a festival of fun runners, colours and an estimated 8 million pounds is raised for good causes each year.Since it started in 1981, around hal f a million people have completed the 13 miles and 192 and a half yards run. The first marathon attracted only 12,000 participants but its popularity has rocketed and now many thousands of applicants are unable to get an entry.There were people from 25 different countries competing in this years event.The Great North Run has attracted many celebrities and well known personalities. Kevin Keegan once ran the Great North Run wearing the red and white stripes of Sunderland and the black and white stripes of Newcastle United. Soccer star Paul Gascoigne once pushed a wheelchair athlete all the way round the Great North Run circuit.Why has there been little investment?* The Great North Run is a charity sporting event. All money generated through the event are donated to charity and not re-invested in the area.* The event is run around the streets of Newcastle so does not require any end built facilities which would require investment.Conclusions to Key Question 4The most common reason for little investment in a sporting event appears to be the lack of need for permanent sporting facilities. Facilities provision is the most costly aspect of a sporting event so where they are not required, investment is significantly less. Another reason for lack of investment, as demonstrated by the Great North Run, is if it is a charity sporting event. These events set out to make as much money for good causes as possible so dont spend money unnecessarily. Small maximum attendances also reduce investment. Money from ticket and merchandise sales is one of the main sources of income, so a small venue will only generate a little money for re-investment. last ConclusionThe initial question that was asked at the beginning of this report was To what extent do major sporting events act as a focus for inward investment?I examined this subject field using four key questions, making ongoing conclusions as I went along. The following conclusion is an accumulation of my findings throughout the report* I have reached the conclusion that the majority of sporting events do act as a focus for inward investment. Through my research and analysis of a range of different types and scales of sporting events I believe that the extent to which this is true depends on the nature of the event. Large scale events such as an Olympic games will require a much larger investment than a world championship in a specific sport. They will require a wider range of sporting facilities and are likely to attract a broader range of spectators, requiring greater provision of spectator facilities.* I have also concluded that many of these events have lasting benefits not just for the people who benefit directly from the facilities but the general population of the area who receive the financial and social benefits.* Events which do not act as a focus for inward investment are those which do not require permanent facilities, or in the case of the BUPA Great North Run any facilities. The potential aud ience size can also be a limiting factor as shown by the example of the Embassy World Snooker Championship.As you can see from my conclusion, the question asked in this report is of a complex nature and has no simple answer. I used case studies covering a range of scales and locations in order to make as accurate a judgement as possible. However I could only use a limited number due to the length of time I had to carry out my research and compile this report. To fully investigate the issue I would need to carry out my research on a much larger scale, covering a greater time period and range of events.BibliographyWebsites* Athens 2004www.athens.olympic.org Official site for the Summer Olympics, Athens 2004. Contains information on the preparations being made ahead of the games, the events that will take place during the games, and regularly updated press releases.* Embassy World Snooker Championshipwww.embassysnooker.com Official site of the major sponsor of world snooker, Embassy tobacco company. Contains information on all the major world snooker events and venues, the latest news from the world of snooker, and its history as a major sport.* Great North Runwww.greatnorthrunjustgiving.homestead.com Website containing information on the history of the Great North Run, and how sponsorship can be raised and collected. People wishing to take part have to sign up here.www.onrunning.com Website run by BUPA (The British United prudent Association), a leading UK private medical insurance organisation. Contains the latest information on the Great North Run and other charity races which they sponsor.* Silverstonewww.grandprix.com A website give to Formula One. Contains up-to-date news articles as well as circuit, driver and team profiles.www.octagonmotorsports.com Website belonging to Octagon Motor sports, a US marketing group which owns the rights to the British Grand Prix. Contains information on their role within the motor sports industry, press releases, and profile of the circuits which they have connections with (including Silverstone, Brands Hatch and Oulton Park).* World Cup 2002www.fifaworldcup.yahoo.com Official site of the FIFA World Cup 2002, containing news articles, competition results, and venue information.* World Student Games, 1991www.sivltd.com/donvalley Official site for the Don Valley Stadium, owned by Sheffield International Venues Ltd. Contains information on the history of the stadium, its facilities and an up-to-date calendar of events.* Other websiteswww.culture.gov.uk/sport The DCMS (Department for Culture, Media and Sports) website.www.sportengland.org Website of Sport England, the largest distributor of lottery and exchequer funding for sport in England.www.uksport.gov.uk Website of UK Sport who co-ordinate boilers suit sports policy, the support of elite sport at the UK level as well as UK-wide programmes such as anti-doping and major events.Books* Economics, A New Approach by A.G. Anderton A contempora ry A Level text fully updated and revised to take account of recent economic developments.

Hello Kitty Singapore Essay Example for Free

Hello Kitty Singapore EssayA mortal has many needs at any given time. Abraham Maslow sought to explain why people are driven by particular needs at particular times. According to him, human needs are arranged in a hierarchy (refer to Figure 1), from the most pressing to the least pressing. In put together of importance, they are physiological needs, safety needs, social needs, esteem needs and self-actualization needs. The most basic level of needs must be satisfied first forward desiring higher level needs.Therefore, having a Mctoy fulfils the forth level needs, called as Esteem Needs. Self-esteem is the desire for status, self-respect and prestige. Owning the serial publication of Hello Kitty dolls has gained a sense of fulfilment to the individual beca do it is not that easy to get the limited edition toys at any time. Besides that, the Kiasu attitude which is very popular among Singaporeans to ingest something which everyone else is having, regardless of whether it is o f any use. The fear of losing out drives the feeling to fulfil their esteem needs, where they are happy knowing they too have one like others. In order to fulfil the esteem need, people are often engaged in either profession or hobby to gain recognition. For those who loves collecting dolls, use this hobby as a platform to gain recognition from others so that they will be praised. Thus, they feel that by owning the series of hello kitty dolls sess make them gained recognition. How has McDonalds created time honor to its consumers by offering Hello Kittty dolls in their Extra Value Meals? Marketing experts, Don Peppers and Martha Rogers say thatThe only value a company will ever create is the value that comes from customers. Customer value is the relationship between the consumers perception of benefits they believe they will derive from a purchased compared to the outlay that will be paid. The total benefit package includes functional attributes of the product and related servic e attributes. Creating value not only transforms sales effectiveness, it also provides breakup from price pressure. There are many sales strategies, tactics and techniques for creating value for customers. McDonalds has identified the benefits that consumers would gain from the promotion by creating a series of value to its customer through the promotion. The total value created to its consumers by McDonalds comprises of four sources namely product, services, personnel and image.Firstly, the product (Hello kitty Dolls) were given as a allowance to its loyal consumers at its cost price when consumer purchases the Extra Value Meal, rather than charging any extra amount for it. McDonalds has created value to its consumers by offering this product premium. In terms of service, McDonalds has created value to its consumers an alternative way of getting the exclusive dolls, where these dolls corporation only be purchased through McDonalds outlets during the limited period of time. This series of limited-edition toys will not be available as and when consumers want them. Thirdly, the satisfaction gained by consumers by owning these dolls.As the dolls were limited edition and were sold at cheaper price, McDonalds has created the satisfaction feeling among its consumers when they own them. And finally image value is created to McDonalds consumers where the consumers have the option to choose designs of their preferences during the one-month promotion. The image of Kitty representing different cultures wedding costumes creates value to those owning them. Thus, McDonalds has added up values from all the four sources mentioned above to successfully create values to its consumers through its Hello Kitty Promotion.Recommendations and ConclusionHere are several alternatives that McDonalds should have considered before carrying out the promotion to avoid such havoc from happening1) Study the consumer behaviour of Singaporeans2) Periods of the promotion3) Increase the repre ss of toys offered for promotionIn conclusion, the havoc caused from the Hello Kitty Promotion in Singapore has not tarnished McDonalds image in any aspect. This was proven when McDonalds introduced another six sets of designs featured royal costumes around the world a year after, and the sales seem not to be declining. There was no iterate of the previous years frenzy as McDonalds was prepared. Several precautions were taken such as limiting the number of dolls each customer can buy to four, and had more dolls in stock for panic buying. Besides that, to monitor and control the crowds, McDonalds has hired security personnel and mobile squad officers to confer McDonalds outlets.

Nancy Lancaster and Her Influence on Architecture Essay Example for Free

Nancy Lancaster and Her Influence on Architecture EssayEmpowerment. No different record book rear end probably spell out how the women had ever wanted, and will always want to achieve it so long as oppression, discrimination, disparagement, abuse, and the list of scornful issues can go on until this era and so long as the eras to come continue to wreak these issues upon the women. This advocacy grew stronger every decade and the societys mound f altogethers upon those group of citizens kicking up a storm within and against the other group called men. What could better explain this outcry than their wonder that despite their social rank in what the knowledge domain or at least most of it recognize as society, they are clustered as the second group with the men modify up the first.Even the finesseistic realm, though mostly associated with women, is predominated by the male species. After all, the prominent grandmother of all architectural work of dodge was conceived by m en. The Parthenon, begun in 447 B.C., was part of a great plan conceived by the indubitably male Athenian Pericles for decorating the Acropolis in Greece. This temple was designed by three other manly architects Ictinus, Mnesicles, and Callicrates. History tells us that the Greek colonists had established this ever-male-dominated disciplines in literature, art, and architecture. Their neighbors, the Etruscans, were the first to forge practical skills in sanitation, road building, architecture, and pottery making by as early as seventh century B.C.This inequity was brought about by a number of reasons. Generally women were non permitted into the finest art groundings. As a consequence, women sour out deficient in the de rigueur education to go up against men in the field receiving the highest regard for in the scholarly realm, historical and metaphorical painting. This segregation similarly kept women from breaking the glass ceiling and establishing the social and political assoc iates needed to thrive in the artistically aggressive ambit.Juvenile pistillate art scholars supposed they existed in a potential period notwithstanding the several forms of complicatedness they were obliged to prevail over. Private art academe, enrolled in which was a cockle of male and female students, were a commonplace, as were art schools exclusive to women. But even these art schools would not permit women to exert themselves from nude subjects until the transition to the rising century.The sizeable national exhibitions demonstrated several works by women, to a certain extent for the reason that entries were tendered namelessly or incognito. Halfway through the subsequent centuries, women also started to establish their own exclusive expositions. Among them were Americans Mary Elizabeth Jane Colter, Lois Lilley Howe, Louise Blanchard Bethune, Sophia Hayden, and Mabel Keyes Babcock.Twentieth century architects explored new methods and materials in their designs, but the dom inant style in city buildings was the angular world(prenominal) Style. A few architects in the United States made use of ideas found in German architecture and in the Savoye House. Although office and public buildings are impressive, it is the put forward that provides the most immediate architectural experiences for most people.There is a huge variety in the houses in the United States. This is seen in the thousands of buildings erected in housing developments since gentleman War II. At virtuoso extreme, are the multiple-unit dwellings. At the other is the house designed for the needs of one family. Thanks to the househ over-the-hills headed by women, the need for more female architects and graphic designers were born. And together with dwellings is the widened variety of furniture and housewares that peppered the household pioneered by Nancy Lancaster.A woman designer who made a redrafting of a historic edifice was Rebecca L. Binder. The five-story academic institution she was commissioned to remake a 40,000-square feet addition, which she beautified with concrete with horizontal belts in brickwork. How she made it happen could not be sufficed with either superlative words or this magnum physical composition itself Perhaps, Nancy Lancasters words could better explain the beauty that Rebecca L. Binder and the rest of the fabulous woman designers emanate through their masterpieces I was always searching for beauty. I wasnt as interested in the houses as I was in their ambience. In the furniture, in the history, in the garden. You neer could put your finger specifically on whatever created the beauty, it was too elusive, but houses were where I found it the most Indeed, Rebecca L. Binder is but one of the many designers especially the female ones to get perpetuated the influence of one of the breakthrough designers of the modern era Nancy Lancaster. Nancy Lancasters words could echo the own feelings of these female designers for interiors and architectu re. The revolutionary Scandinavian boomerang shapes had descended en masse upon the abodes of the more advancing of the Western population.The fifties era had set in, but in other homes, homebodies were still clinging to Victorian values, Dickens, and Puccini, while everyone else was worshipping the new gods names Elvis and Rock, and had been lured by the picket Danish furniture, delicate paper Noguchi lamps, and wretched wallpapers. The new household names were unpronounceable Sigrun Blow-Hbe, Victoria Van Dyke, Itsuko Hasegawa, Signe Lagerborg-Stenius, Annette Hoyt Flanders, and Hanna Adamczewska-Wejchert. The sixties heralded a great struggle between the love for Grand-Meres romantic world and the growing interest in all things modern. Out went the sweet remembrance of the old coachmans house with its exquisite, old-fashioned rooms and in came the exciting iconoclasm of the Mary Quant, the provocative mini-skirt, and false eyelashes by the yard. Plastic reigned supreme, and inf latable transparent furniture and chairs, lamps, kitchen utensils in screaming, lascivious colors took over from the natural Scandinavian look. Eileen Gray, Le Corbusier, and their much-favored combination of steel, chrome, and black leather had yet to be rediscover.For the moment, the design-conscious sat decorously in the pop designer Verner Pantons Champagne Chair and in Knolls pristine white and curvilinear furniture, or tried to look very futuristic and 2001 in a foam and stretch-jersey construction made by Monsieur Mourge.This variety may seem to have been impossible decades ago. Back then, Expressionism was a movement that proved to be an enduring force in 20th century art, exercising a strong influence on newfound York painters of the 1940s and 1950s. This period also promoted the model of neoplasticism, a plastic idiom every bit applicable to painting, architecture, and the decorative arts, and was known to have influenced the Constructivists in New York.Constructivism i s one of several idealist abstract art movements that arose in Europe and Russia between 1913 and 1920. It stressed total acceptance of technological, scientific society and the possibility of an ideal world based on the perfect functionalism of the elevator car (Frascina et al., 1982).More futuristic Vasarely patterns, the revolting combination of chocolate brown and orange and the dangerous juxtaposition of apple-green and geranium-red proved that the seventies were all about color. And about color-blindness. Walls covered with panels of brushed steel, long-haired flokati carpet that looked like the curly fur of a wet sheep, and anthropomorphic furniture ran riot. To be really in meant having plexiglass all over the place a plexiglass coffee table, plexigllass side tables, plexiglass obelisks (with uplighters sprucely hidden in their bases so they glowed mysteriously at night), and little plexiglass supports to add drama to the objets dart and emphasize their qualities and value .Indeed, these innovative designs were all a product of the revolutionary state of affairs during the time they were made. Thus, the artists revolt against the unequivocal codes of composition, careful execution, harmonious coloring, and heroic subject matter. One museum in New York today nostalgically reflects this revolution. The Museum of Modern Art puts across the messages of womens success, fame, power and doughnut with their latest exhibit Digitally Mastered Recent Acquisitions from the Museums Collection. Digitally Mastered stresses total acceptance of technological, scientific society and the possibility of an ideal world based on the perfect functionalism of the machine. This modern variety in the arts springs to life with a surprising sense of alertness, as if it had a personality. Joie de vivre is what every New Yorker can describe of himself. After all, New York is the busiest city in the world.The progressiveness of women designers is entertainingly described in the m ost relevant movie last year. In the movie/novel The Devil Wears Prada, the highly modish corporate garb, seen on people going to work in the course of a fashion racecourse and doing a catwalk along the busiest business districts of New York, is still an understatement. Not provided does the movie depict women progressive in the arty world but in the economic world as a whole. Women have always been the tops in the fashion world, both locally and internationally. Somehow the androgyny seems to have the favor of knowing what their fellow women want and what men consider attractive in terms of etiquette and dress.If interior design in the eighties had a color scheme, it was principally black and white. It was launched and cleverly promoted by the Black Widow of design, Andree Putman, a gifted talent-scout and orchestrator of striking and severe interiors, who founded the firm ECART which reproduced original designs, mainly from the thirties.As a result, a large number of tables, c hairs, and lams by the totally forgotten Irish designer Eileen Gray, and creations by giants of the Art Deco period, such as Robert Mallet-Stevens and Jean-Michel Frank, were re-edited. Re-edition was the clever description that covered up the eighties frantic and boundless copying of originals.Design fanatics, who would never have invested any money in the acquisition of a common copy, seemed to be purple to be living with the same Fortuny Lamr, the same Eileen Gray carpet, and the same sleek Frank sofa as their neighbors. Gae Aulenti and Rebecca L. Binder very well know this.Those who melodic theme that living among vulgar copies showed little originality seemed to find solace in the sublime and very esthetic emptiness of minimalism, reassured by the fact that if one feature very little, one could never be accused of having no taste. Andree Putman, always light years ahead of trends to come, had already pointed a warning finger at the threatening despotism of design and at the constant fear of not being of the latest fashion.Of course, the multifaceted world of interior design had also had a string of adepts who would only take inspiration from great classical examples. In the fifties, when the boomerang fever had rise to its most dangerous level, the prominent Madeleine Castaing was filling the pages of the lead magazine Connaissance des Arts with images of rooms that looked deceptively period.Her love of white and gold and her penchant for velvets and damask silks and a flamboyant use of antiques seemed, at that time, only accessible to the moneyed few. Madame Castaings subtle concoction of le style Anglais, bourgeois Viennese biedermeier, and sever Frencg directoire reached its zenith at her own chateau near Chartres. But her cleverly composed windowpanes on the past were like wines that do not travel, and remained imprisoned in their own country.This description could equally well apply to the formidable Nancy Lancaster herself, whose memories from he r Virginia childhood transcribed in her splendid dwellings in England became the English country look. Her buttah-yellah room above the shop was the epitome of relaxed chic, and some of her statements, such as I never thought twice about using bright colors in old houses, and Mahogany is lovely when its been faded in the sun, illustrate her clean interpretation of the past when she was attempting to create a period look.An inspired artist who spend her whole life doing up houses, Lancaster has left a most exquisite description of the decoration of the staircase in her London townhouse at 28 Quen Annes GateWhen you walked in, the staircase was on the left it was the loveliest architectural feature in the house. I left the staircase a tobacco color but painted the paneling along the stairs a pale, pale green. On the window in the stair hall, I put curtains the color of a cigar, with a fringed pelmet and along the floor I had a very graceful Bessarabian runner with the same brown i n itHer words convey something of the excitement involved in creating this prologue to a ballet performance.On the other side of the Atlantic, an equally formidable lady was also freely borrowing elements from the past. Lady Mendl, also known as Elsie de Wolfe, who invented the profession of interior decorator was making a godforsaken cocktail of Louis styles in different shades of white and combining them with Venetian baroque, forties stucco, engraved mirrors, and walls decorated with silver leaf.The setting for a period recreation does not always have to be grand, the expenditure exorbitant, or reflective of only the sentimental females work. It is imagination rather than money that is the first urgency for originality. Large amounts of money are not always needed a room can be assembled from inexpensive finds in the flea market, a pair of old curtains, and a table found in a street or on a dumpster. All these could be found in grandmas basement while the men in the family, lea ving their women at home, rummage through the streets for the money. The likes of Nancy Lancaster prove that even the homebodies can be exorbitantly creative.Ancient patinas have their own romance that could only come from the empowered womanly instincts crumbling walls and peeling paint can be the epitome of sophistication, and touches such as the elegant folds of engrossed fabric, a candlestick on an antique table, or the presence of a canopied bed all contribute to a style that has been inspired by the past but will, in the end, be timeless.ReferencesFrascina, Francis, Harrison, Charles, and Deirdre, Paul. (2002). Modern Art and Modernism A Critical Anthology.Grosenick, U. (2002). Women Artists in the 20th and 21st Century.

Flexural Response of Concrete Structures

Flexural Response of Concrete StructuresLiterature ReviewIntroductionThis chapter provides a literature review on the previous studies that have been conducted on the flexural receipt of FRP/FRC structures. Previous studies related to the set of apply discrete theatrical roles on the cover properties argon first presented with a guidance on the use of goods and services of non-met tot aloneyic characters. Later in the chapter, previous studies conducted on continuous FRP- beef up structures are presented. The chapter ends with a presentation on the research needs and the current research objectives.Fiber- reinforce concreteBackgroundConcrete is cognize for its superior compressive capabilities. However, it has certain deficiencies like weak tensile authorisation, low durability, and brittleness. The soaring demand on more resilient concrete with develop durability properties direct to the development of roughage- built concrete. Adding discrete characters to concrete liquifytures helps in bridging the micro and macro cracks. The random distribution of fibers suffers the propagation of cracks in all directions unlike the longitudinal reinforcing disallow that resist in only one direction. Fiber bridging allows stress to be transferred across the cracks, enhancing both flexure and shear resistance. In addition, fiber bridging upgrades crack controlling by reducing the crack width and set. These enhancements result in better post-cracking ductility and energy absorption capacity.Fiber partsFibers are added to concrete mix to restrict the developing of cracks. Several types of fibers are commonly utilise in concrete construction. These fibers can be metallic like stigma fibers, synthetic as polypropene or natural like jute. The first two types of fibers are the most commonly used in civil engineering applications. Metallic fibers are known for their exalted last strength, part the alkaline resistance of synthetic fibers makes them suitabl e for harsh environments. The usage of fibers depends on the required demeanour of concrete. A comparison amidst the carnal properties of diverse fibers is found in table 2-1.Metallic fibersSteel fibers are the most common metallic fibers, and the most frequently used fibers in concrete structures. They are known for their naughty tensile strength, availability and their reasonable cost. Their high strength enhances the post-cracking behaviour of the concrete. This enhancement boosts concrete ability to control cracks and shrinkage. Different shapes and geometries are available to use in market. The typical diameter varies between 0.10 to 1 mm. Steel fibers could be straight, end-hooked, crimped, and flattened-end (Figure 2-1) this versatility helps in fulfilling market needs.Figure 2- 1 Various trade name fibers shapes (Susetyo, 2009) celluloid fibers youthfully, the desire to use synthetic fibers, as an additional reinforcing stimulus for concrete, has significantly grown. Known for their resistance for alkaline conditions, synthetic fibers became an attractive substitute for steel fibers in concrete applications. In addition, they are chemically inert and have high melting height, which make them appropriate for structures subjected to aggressive environmental attacks. Synthetic fibers, solve 2-2, can be categorized according to their modulus of elasticity. Except for carbon and kelvar fibers, most of the synthetic fibers fall in low modulus of elasticity category, such as polypropylene, polyester and nylon. Synthetic fibers are very flexible, which prevent fibers from sticking or breaking during concrete pumping.Figure 2- 2 Synthetic fiber (adapted from testilelearner.ca)Natural fibersFibers extracted from animals, such as hair and jute, are the oldest type of fibers used in fiber reinforced concrete. Comparing with their fibers counterparts, they are considered cheap, eco-friendly and available in many countries. With the implementation of unfe rmented technology, fibers could be extracted from new sources such as ba table salt rocks. delinquent to their high resistivity to alkalis and acids, basalt fibers (Figure2-3), made themselves an appropriate candidate for concrete applications. Recent studies conducted by Jianxun Ma et al (2012) and Kizilkanat et al (2015), exhibit the ability of basalt fibers to enhance the durability and post cracking behavior of concrete.Figure 2- 3 Basalt fibers (adapted from technobaslat.com)Table 2-1 Different fibers and their propertiesFiberDiameterYoungs Modulus Tensile strength figuremmGPaMPaMetallicSteel0.10-1.0180-200700-1800SyntheticPolypropylene0.02-1.05450Polyester0.01-0.1010-150150-3000Kelvar0.01-0.0350-703500-4000NaturalWood0.02-0.1510-50300-1000Jute0.10-0.2025-35250-350Factors affecting the properties of FRCFiber volume fractionThe amount of fibers added to a concrete mix is measurable as a percentage of the total volume of concrete and fibers. This percentage is called fiber vo lume fraction (Vf). It generally ranges from 0.5 to 3%. Previous studies showed that the fiber volume fraction is the most influencing parameter on the properties of FRC. It has been shown that increasing the fiber volume fraction enhances the compressive strength, the post-cracking behavior, and the ductility of the concrete share (Jianxun Ma et al., 2012). The accession in the fiber circumscribe increases the probability of intersecting the cracks and therefore boosts the ability of concrete to resist cracks. However, higher(prenominal) fiber contents could lead to workability passing play and segregation of the concrete constituents. Problems associated with the high fiber content occur as a result of the decreased paste volume fraction available for the dethaw movements of the fibers and aggregates.Kakooei et al. (2012) canvasd the properties of concrete mixes reinforced with polypropylene fibers. The concrete compressive strength, its permeability, and its electric resist ivity were evaluated. The fibers were added in amounts that ranged between 0 to 2 kg per cubic meter. It was reported that concrete samples with 1.5 kg per cubic meter of polypropylene fibers showed better results in comparison with other samples. The concrete compressive strength was found to be proportional to the amount of fibers added in the mix.The record conducted by Jianxun Ma et al (2012) on the influence of basalt fiber content (added in amounts of 1 to 3%) on the physical and mechanical properties of traditional cement-based materials. fluidity and cube compressive strength tests were carried out. Test results showed that the above-mentioned properties were inversely proportional to the added fiber content. In addition, it was proven that the toughness index was directly proportional to the fiber content up to 2%.Kizilkanat et al (2015) studied the burden of fiber dosage of basalt and glass fibers on the mechanical properties of FRC. Basalt fiber reinforced concrete (BFR C) specimens showed the highest compressive strength at 0.50% whereas the glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC) showed the highest compressive strength at 0.75%. Both mixes showed a decrement in their modulus of elasticity with the increase of the fiber dosage. A40% increase in the splitting tensile strength was observed in the BFRC mix at 1.0%. The increase in the flexure strength was more pronounced in the BFRC mix and was directly proportional to the fiber dosage used. BFRC specimens showed flexural strengths13 and 34% higher than those of the plain concrete specimens at Vf= 0.5 and 1%, respectively. On the other hand, GFRC specimens showed marginal increase in their flexural strengths with Vf= 0.5%. Fiber dosage of 0.25% had no effect on the fracture energy for both types of mixes. However, the fracture energy increased by 50% at Vf=1% in both mixtures.Fiber aspect ratioFiber aspect ratio is defined as the ratio of the fiber length to its diameter (.Previous studies havedemons trated that the fiber aspect ratio affected the properties of fiber reinforced concrete. High aspect ratios enhance the bond between the fiber and the matrix, which creates a stiff matrix and enhances the bonding between concrete and fibers. Shah and Rangan (1971) stated that the higher the aspect ratio the greater the ability of fibers to transmit stresses through cracks.Iyer et al. (2014) evaluated the 28-day compressive strength and modulus of rupture of basalt fiber reinforced concrete beams. Specimens had different volume fractions and aspect ratios (same diameters but varying lengths). Plain concrete and steel fiber wages specimens were pasture as references. It was found that increasing the fiber length and the fiber amount considerably reduced the workability of concrete. The fiber length had an insignificant effect on the modulus of rupture and the compressive strength of concrete when low percentages of fibers were used. For high fiber percentages, the results showed an increase in the modulus of rupture with the increase of the fiber length. The theme showed that a major improvement in the compressive strength could be achieved by using 36 mm basalt fibers with Vf = 0.31% but not as high as steel fiber reinforced concrete specimens.Fiber geometryCommercially-available fibers have different shapes namely, straight, end-hooked, crimped, and flattened-end (Fig XXX). Recent experimental studies by Susetyo (2009) showed that concrete matrices reinforced with condenseder fibers have higher deformation ductility and better crack control over those with long fibers. This was attributed to the large amounts of short fibres that could exist within the matrix, which improves the concrete ability to control cracks and bridge the tensile stresses across the cracks.Figure 2- 4 Commercially available steel fibers (adapted from steelfiber.org)A study by Branston et al. (2016) investigated the mechanical properties of two types of basalt fibers (chopped basalt fibers and mini interdict). It was observed that adding chopped basalt fibers retarded the first crack but had no effect on either the compressive strength or the post cracking behavior. Further examination using scanning electronic microscope showed that the chopped basalt fiber specimens failed due to rupture of the fibers sequence the mini interdict-reinforced specimens failed due to fibers pullout.Figure 2- 5 Chopped basalt fibers and Minibars used in Banstons experimentBasalt fiber reinforced polymer (BFRP) barThis section reports on the use of continuous fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) bars in reinforcing concrete elements. Due to the wide range of FRP types that are commercially available, this section will focus on the recently developed basalt FRP (BFRP) bars and their use as reinforcing bars for concrete sections.BFRP bars are the newest members in the FRP bars family. They consist of basalt fibers impregnated in polymeric resin. The fibers are extracted from natural basa lt rocks through a melting process. They are known for their high tensile strength, high modulus, and large strain to failure. Furthermore, they are known for their better durability and chemical stability over their glass FRP (GFRP) counterparts, which make them adequate for use in alkaline environments. To date, few studies have focused on the use of BFRP bars as internal reinforcement.The literature presented below is divided to three master(prenominal) sections as followsLiterature on the durability of BFRP barsLiterature on concrete elements reinforced with BFRP bars andLiterature on concrete elements with fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) reinforced longitudinally with BFRP bars.Durability of BFRP barsEl Refai et al (2015) investigated the bond performance of BFRP bars to concrete through direct pullout test. Cylinders reinforced with glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) were cast for comparative purposes. Different diameters of BFRP and GFRP bars, with variable embedment leng th in concrete, were used in this study. Results proved that BFRP bars could be a proper ersatz for GFRP bars as they attained 75% of GFRP bond strength. Smaller diameters of BFRP bars were more adhesive to concrete over the larger bars. This adhesion led to better bond between the concrete and the BFRP bars. It was noticed that BFRP and GFRP bars had similar trend regarding the effect of embedment length on the bond stress as bond strength of both bars were inversely proportional with the embedment length.Altalmas et al (2015) studied the effect of various environmental conditions on the bond strength of pullout concrete cubes reinforced with sand-coated BFRP bars. Acid, saline and alkaline solutions were used to adopt different harsh environmental conditions. The program consisted of 62 cube specimens reinforced with either BFRP or GFRP bars. Specimens were either unlettered or subjected to exposure conditions for 30, 50 and 90 days. Results showed that BFRP specimens had bette r bond strength with concrete over the ribbed GFRP specimens, regardless the exposure condition,. BFRP specimens subjected for saline and alkaline solutions showed a 25% bond reducing after 90 days, while 14% diminution were reported for those immersed in acidic solution for the same duration of exposure. 25% bond loss was the highest bond reduction reported by GFRP specimens after 90 days. This reduction was reported by the specimens submerged in acidic solution, while 17% reduction was observed for specimens subjected to saline and alkaline conditions.Elgabbas et al (2015) investigated the short- and long-run properties of three different types of BFRP. The bars were conditioned in alkaline solution simulating the concrete environment to assess their ability as an internal reinforcement for concrete elements. The physical and mechanical properties of the bars were determined according to ACI-440 and CSA-807 test procedures. Concerning the short-term properties, the results showe d that BFRP bars met the physical and mechanical requirements stated by ACI and CSA and could be placed in the same category as grade II and grade III GFRP bars. However, the long-term mechanical properties for the alkali-conditioned specimens showed significant degradation. Scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) confirmed that this degradation was attributed to the poor bonding between the resin and the fiber.Hassan et al. (2016) studied the bond durability of BFRP bars engraft in concrete in aggressive environments. A total of 50 BFRP specimens were immersed in alkaline solution at three different elevated temperatures (40, 50, and 60o C) for 1.5, 3, and 6 months. Five measureless specimens were tested at room temperature 28 days after casting for comparative purposes. The bond strength generally increased with the increase in the surrounding temperature. Exposure for 1.5 months increased the bond strengths by 25% and 26% in the specimens conditioned at 50 and 60oC, respectively, whereas a minor reduction in the bond strength (about 4%) was recorded for specimens conditioned at 40. Specimens conditioned for6 months at 40 had the maximal bond loss (about 16%). However, all specimens met the minimum bond strength reported by ACI 440.6 and CSA-S807. Depending on the environmental conditions, the long-term bond-strength-retention predications of the BFRP bars after 50 years of service life ranged from 71% to 92%,Durability of BFRP barsMahroug et al. (2013) studied the flexural chemical reaction of simple and continuous slabs reinforced with BFRP bars. A total of 6 slabs having different reinforcement ratios and bars system of rules were tested in flexure. One continuously supported slab reinforced with steel bars was also tested as a reference slab. Results showed that slab reinforced with BFRP bars had higher deflections with deeper cracks than the reference slab. Over-reinforced BFRP-reinforced slabs showed higher loading carrying capacity. The authors repor ted that ACI 440.1R-06 overestimated the flexural capacity in most of BFRP-reinforced concrete slabs. ISIS-M03-07 and CSA-S806-06 reasonably predicted the deflections of the BFRP-reinforced slabs whereas ACI 440-1R-06 infraestimated their deflections.Lapko and Urbanski (2014) presented a comparative abstract of experimental and theoretical analysis of concrete beams reinforced with BFRP bars. The research consisted of three beams reinforced with BFRP bars and three reference beams reinforced with conventional steel bars. The results showed that the BFRP-reinforced beams showed higher deflections and crack width in comparison with their steel-reinforced counterparts. CSA806-02 accurately predicted the beam deflections at the initial loading level (up to 20% of critical load) with 9% discrepancy between the theoretical and experimental deflections. As the load increased, the CSA806-02 showed large discrepancy between the theoretical and the experimental deflections (up to 49%). Defl ections based on the provision of ISIS (2007) and and by change equation of Bischoff were the most accurate throughout all phases of loading.Pawowskia and Szumigaaa (2015) investigated the flexural behavior of full-scale BFRP-reinforced beams. Three beams with different reinforcement ratios were tested until failure. Results showed that BFRP-reinforced beams having high reinforcement ratios see higher ultimate loads and stiffness that those having low reinforcement ratios. However, the former beams showed less ductility than the later ones. It was proven that the flexural design of BFRP-reinforced members is governed by serviceability limits since the ultimate deflections of beams were six times greater than the permissible values. Numerical analysis using ABAQUS showed a good agreement with the experimental results.Zhang et al. (2015) studied the flexural deflections of concrete beams reinforced with BFRP bars. sixsome beams reinforced with different ratios in addition to one co ntrol steel-reinforced beam were tested under four point loading. Results showed that BFRP-reinforced beams exhibited brittle failure especially the under-reinforced beams. ACI 440.1R-06 accurately predicted the flexure capacities of the beams but underestimated their deflection capacities. A modified equation considering the influence of the increased compressive zone was proposed. This equation showed higher accuracy in predicting the deflections of the BFRP-reinforced beams than the ACI equation. Finite element modeling (FEM) using ABAQUS package was used to model the BFRP-reinforced beams and showed good agreement with the experimental results.Elgabbas et al (2016) investigated the structure performance of six concrete beams reinforced with BFRP bars. The beams had different reinforcement ratios, number of reinforcement layers, and bar sizes. It was found that the ACI and CSA overestimated the cracking moment by an average of 27% and 24%, respectively. The average bond-dependent coefficient (kb) was estimated at 0.8, which was in agreement with the recommendation of the Canadian Highway Bridge Design Code. The obtained results confirmed that the pre-cracking response of all beams was similar until cracking occurred with no evidence of being affected by the reinforcement ratio. However, after cracking, it was reported that beams with higher reinforcement ratios had better crack distribution and less crack width. The authors concluded that CSA provisions provided reasonable deflection further conservative values over the ACI for beams reinforced with BFRP.Tomlinson and Fam (2015) evaluated the flexural and shear performances for concrete beams reinforced with BFRP bars and stirrups. A total of nine specimens were reinforced with BFRP bars were tested under four-point loading. Steel reinforced specimens were cast for comparison purposes. The parameters investigated included the type of stirrups (steel or BFRP) and the reinforcement ratio (varying from 0.28 t o 1.60). Results showed that the service and ultimate loads of BFRP specimens were directly proportional to the flexural reinforcement ratio, regardless the shear reinforcement type. In addition, BFRP-reinforced beams showed significantly higher strengths (2.8 times) in comparison with their steel-reinforced counterparts having the same reinforcement ratio. ACI and CSA adequately predicted the flexural strength of the BFRP-reinforced beams.Ge et al. (2015) studied the flexural behavior of hybrid concrete beams reinforced with BFRP and steel bars. Three hybrid concrete beams reinforced with BFRP bars and steel bars, one concrete beam reinforced with BFRP bars and one concrete beam reinforced with steel bars were cast. Results showed that the ratio between the area of FRP bars to that of steel bars () governed the deflection and the crack spacing properties of the hybrid beams, as both decreased with the increase of this ratio. It was observed that under same loading, the deflection a nd crack spacing were maximal in the BFRP-reinforced beams and minimal in the steel-reinforced ones. Hybrid beams showed deflections less than those encountered in the BFRP-reinforced beams but higher than those of the steel-reinforced ones. It was also proven that the average crack spacing calculation theory is valid for hybrid-reinforced beams, while a new formula for calculating the flexural capacity was proposed for those beams.Hybrid FRC/FRP specimensWon et al (2010) investigated the flexural cracks of 16 beams reinforced with FRP bars. Parameters used in this study were the reinforcement bars type (GFRP or CFRP) and the reinforcement ratio. Steel reinforced specimens were cast for comparative purposes. 1% by volume of crimped polypropylene fibers was added to the concrete mix. Results showed that adding polypropylene fibers enhanced the cracking response of the concrete. However, it reduced its compressive strength by 23%, in comparison with the plain concrete. Both GFRP and C FRP under-reinforced FRC beams had smaller cracks, while the over-reinforced ones had an increased number of cracks formed. Polypropylene fibers didnt have oftentimes of an effect on steel reinforced specimens as beams with plain concrete and with FRC had similar cracking response.A total of 36 specimens were fabricated by Belrabi et al. (2011) to investigate the effect of environmental exposure on the long-term bond behavior of FRP/FRC structures. Specimens were subjected to combined freez eand thaw cycles and high temperature while being submerged in salt solution. FRP bars in plain concrete were subjected to the same environmental conditions for comparative purposes. It was found that 0.5% of polypropylene fibers significantly enhanced the bond durability. An average of 28% reduction in bond strength was observed for FRP bars in plain concrete whereas only 6% reduction was observed for FRC specimens. Furthermore, 26% average reduction in design bond strength was reported for pla in concrete specimens while only 10% reduction was reported for FRC specimens.Wang and Belarbi (2013) investigated the long-term flexural performance of FRP/FRC beams. Beams cast with plain concrete served as controls. Twenty-six over-reinforced concrete beams were subjected to freeze and thaw cycles followed by high temperature cycles before being tested in flexure. It was reported that all specimens failed due to concrete crushing. Results showed that conditioning had slight effect on the flexural capacities of both plain and FRC beams. However, 0.5% of polypropylene fibers enhanced the ductility index of both conditioned and unconditioned specimens by an average of 30%.Wang and Belrab (2015) conducted a research to investigate the possibility of using steel-free system to overcome corrosion problems associated with steel. Their systems consisted of hybrid CFRP/GFRP bars and 0.5% randomly distributed polypropylene fibers. A total of 12 over-reinforced specimens were subjected to f our-point loading configuration. The investigated parameters included the size and type of FRP bars and the concrete mix (FRC and plain concrete). All plain concrete specimens failed by concrete crushing. However, FRC beams failed in a more ductile behavior that was attributed to the bridging effect of the added fibers. Results showed that the fibers had significantly enhanced the concrete ultimate stain to an average of 3,300 micro-strains while 2,950 micros-trains were measured in theplain concrete beams. The addition of fibers improved the flexural capacity for the FRC beams up to 9% and the ultimate deflection up to 27%.High et al. (2015) conducted an experimental program to investigate the use of BFRP bars as flexural reinforcement for concrete members. In addition, they studied the effect of using chopped basalt fibers as an additive to enhance the mechanical properties of concrete. cardinal one-way slabs reinforced with BFRP bars were tested in flexure and their results were compared with those predicted by ACI 440.1R-06.Under-reinforced slabs showed a lower carrying capacity than the balanced and over-reinforced slabs due to the rupture of BFRP bars. It was proven that ACI 440.1R-06 adequately predicted the flexure capacities of the slabs but significantly underestimated the deflections at service loads. More precise deflection values were predicted by using the equation proposed by Bischoff and Gross (2011) while neglecting the effect of tension stiffening. The use of chopped basalt fiber resulted in an increase in the modulus of rupture of concrete with a slight effect on the compressive strength.ConclusionsA summary of the previous studies that have been carried out on the flexural response of concrete structures reinforced with FRP, FRC or hybrid has been presented. Parameters recognized to have a significant effect on the behaviour of these elements are identified. The previous studies were categorized the reinforcement type FRC, FRP or hybrid. A n overall review on the factors affecting the behaviour of FRC is presented with a focus on non-metallic fibers. In addition, factors making non-metallic fibers more preferable than metallic fibers are highlighted. From the previous literature review, the following points are concludedThe presence of fibers in concrete has a great influence on the behavior of concrete structures. They have been successfully known for their ability to control cracks and shrinkage and enhance the post-cracking behavior. Those enhancements occur as a result of the bridge action caused by fibers.Fiber volume fraction is the most influencing parameter on the properties of FRC. Sufficient fibers are required to enhance the bridging action, while excessive fibers could lead to workability and segregation issues.Synthetic fibers are considered a promising candidate for reinforcing concrete structures. Owing to their alkaline resistivity, high melting point and high tensile strength, they are measured as a p romising replacement for steel fibers in reinforcement concrete applications.Aspect ratio of the fiber is another important factor which influences the behavior of FRC. It has been reported that compressive strength and concrete toughness are considerably affected by the aspect ratio of fibers used in the concrete mix.The type of bars used as flexural reinforcement has a major effect on the behavior of the concrete elements. This occurs due to the stochastic variable in the physical and mechanical properties of the materials used in forming the bars.Reinforcement ratio is a significant parameter in BFRP concrete structures. It was found that specimens having high reinforcement ratios experienced higher ultimate loads and stiffness.ACI 440.1R-06 and CSA S806-06 were accurate in predicting the flexure capacities of BFRP structures however, they underestimated their deflection capacities.There is a noticeable lack of studies on the flexural response of BFRP slabs in the presence of ba salt mini-bars. Among the few studies, this mentioned hybrid system proved to be efficient in enhancing the compressive strength of the concrete and improving its overall durability.None of the previous studies has investigated the effect of different fiber volume ratios of basalt mini-bars on the behavior of concrete structures reinforced with BFRP bars.None of the previous studies has developed a numerical model that is capable to simulate the flexural response of BFRP reinforced concrete structures in the presence of different volume fractions of basalt mini-bars.Research objectivesThe overall objective of the current study is to investigate the flexural response of BFRP slabs reinforced with different volumetric ratios of basalt mini-bars. The detailed procedures of the current study are presented

Importance Of Product Strategy Marketing Essay

Importance Of reaping Strategy Marketing EssayThis chapter gives an overview of the discourse and the importance of the subject matter. The importance of carrefour dodge, the textile industry and a brief introduction on the diesel engine Jeans sector leave behind be presented. trouble formulation, research read/write heads, hypotheses formulation, research aim, research objectives, reasons for choosing of the topic, previous studies, and format of the study bequeath be spelt aside. The research is focus on the point of intersection dodge implemented by diesel motor Jeans in Mauritius.1.2 Importance of harvest-feast dodgingThe value realised by a level from selling its increases is determined to a full-grown extent by the scheme that is used to bring the crossways to marketplace (Chesbrough, 2003). Organisations that launched flourishing intersections such as Apple and Microsoft view been credited with adopting the right produce dodging for their yields (Wall St reet Journal, 2006). Consequently it is imperative for firms to recognize the impact of the fruit strategies formulated.A product schema is the critical vision of the product and affirmed where the product will cease. When a product outline is weared, it becomes easy for firm to determine the nidus of the product efforts. The product schema forms the basis for executing a product roadmap and accordingly product releases. However comp whatsoever is able to concentrate more on a send market specifically and set lineament. Bantel (1997) suggests that p dodgeicular product/market strategies argon stiff at achieving particular consummation goals to the exclusion of others.The role of product strategy is to demonstrate an association between the companys product growth and its wrinkle strategy (McGrath, Anthony, Shapiro, 1996) and according to McGrath (2000) it guarantees that the firm and its products is engaged in the right markets from a strategic viewpoint. Product stra tegy is referred as the consequence of making important decisions in managing spick-and-span product victimization (Krishnan and Ulrich, 2001 Mintzberg, Ahlstrand, and Lampel, 1998). The product strategy process involved the process of decision making inwardly a company.1.3 Textile Industry in MauritiusThe textile industry is among the near signifi appriset pillars of the Mauritanian economy. In the earlys 70, the government created the Export Processing Z ace (EPZ) in society to fight unemployment. Many changes exact occurred almost forty two years of its existence. Mauritius manufactures products of select like Boss, Ralph Lauren, Next, Gap, Mark and Spencer and others trade mark for export towards the Europe and USA due to the full(prenominal) consummate labour force and efficient oversight practices.According to the Mauritius Export Association (MEXA) report 2012, the export sector contributes around Rs 45 billion revenue to the Mauritian economy representing around 14% of GDP and generates approximately 60 000 direct jobs. It has been resilient to the difficult global economic situation and has achieved a modest egression of 7.8% during the year 2011.Table 1.1 below shows the domestic export of textile products through the year.Table 1.1 Domestic Export of Mauritius for year 2008 to year 2011Domestic Exports2008200920102011Cotton articles not knittedMens trousers6576712663957507Mens shirts11796107421101713691Womens trousers2043272234452971Womens blouses8861170968931Cotton articles knittedMens trousers444217363177Mens shirts6384367138834010Womens trousers622122617792495Womens blouses20811170968937Source MEXA Report 20121.4 diesel engine Jeans in Mauritiusestablish on a report of the Diesel Heritage web site, Diesel is viewed as an innovative international image company, making a wide-ranging collection of jeans, clothing and accessories. Diesel is a leader in pi sensationering new styles, fabrics, manufacturing methods and quality control to g o through an excellent product. The company is present in over 80 countries with over 5,000 points of sale and more than 300 monobrand stores (200 of which atomic number 18 company-owned and the rest in partnership with local distributors). Diesel operates through franchise in Mauritius since 1994, and now runs three shops on the territory. The company imports its entire ready to wear products from its country of origin, that is, Italy. Diesel expanded its design to bags, watches, footwear, sunglasses, belts, to bring more options to the guests. Lately more diversified designed products have been added to its portfolio for example designer helmets for motorcyclists and earphones.Competitors of Diesel in Mauritius ar Calvin Klein, Guess, Celio, and Levis and the target market of these competitors ar the same as Diesel. They are still expanding their branches simultaneously with building close relationship with customers.Figure 1.1 shows the number of products that the Diesel Jea ns imported to Mauritius and those products are classified into two seasons, that is, Spring Summer and Fallwinter.Figure 1.1 The import of Diesel Jeans products from 2008 to 2012.Source Fieldwork1.5 Statement of the problemThe rapidly changing culture, politics and economics of novel life deeply influence the industrial environment, particularly consumer industries such as textile and clothing (Lowson, King and Hunter, 1999).The problem is that nowadays the consumers control the marketplace in order to customise the style, fit and colour of the clothes to purchase, and require high quality personalised products at low sets. Therefore many brass instruments adopt militant product strategies to survive and maintain market share and surpass their competitors to satisfy consumers. However, seasonal and highly volatile market industry is always vulnerable to the ideal of fading out and sometimes difficult to survive.Meeting multicultural consumer necessarys by supplying the right products and operate in a global market is an ongoing challenge for marketers, retailers, and suppliers. Now, various clothing industries due to the effect of globalisation, were keen to benefit a larger market, within their country of origin, and also in other markets with high potential. (Kim, Forsythe, Gu Moon, 2002)Moreover the Diesel Jeans is a global brand and it should seek to become part of the local culture and difficulties may rise according to the new designs and new collections of clothes that the organization brings to the Mauritian culture. Hence it would be worthwhile to study the product strategy of Diesel Jeans in the context of Mauritian culture.1.6 query questionThe research question of this project is Whether the product strategy of Diesel Jeans suits the Mauritian market?1.7 Hypotheses formulationFive hypotheses were formulated to test whether thither is any difference between product strategy and customer satisfaction in Chapter fiver under section 5.5.1.8 Research aimTo study the product strategy and it dimensions for customer satisfaction.1.9 Research objectivesThe main objectives of the project are as followsTo review the literature on product strategy dimensions.To assess the product strategy of Diesel Jeans in Mauritius.To measure customer satisfaction.To make recommendation within the context of the study.1.10 Reasons for choosing the topicThe reason why the topic was chosen was the authors interest in product strategy adopted by a global branded clothing industry. The author has chosen global industry to show how the brand integrates the lifestyle of plurality and fashion in Mauritius. In order to be successful a global brand should seek to become part of the local culture, adapting to the unique needs, value and desires of the targeted group.1.11 Previous researchTable 1.2 Previous studies of the subject matterTitleAuthorUniversity/ InstituteYearProduct strategy in response to scientific innovation in the semiconductor test industry.Robert W.LIN massachusetts Institute of Technology.2004Product strategies under durability, look-in and Assortment Considerations.SreelatJonnalageddaUniversity of Texas at Austin.2009Enterprise Product strategies and employer Demand for skills in Britain.Geoff stonemasonNational Institute of Economic and Social Research2004Source Fieldwork1.12 Format of the studyThis study consists of 6 chapters and it is organized as followsChapter 1 IntroductionThis chapter pass ons a background of the textile industry in Mauritius and the study the importance of product strategy. The research question, problem statement, reason for choosing the topic and previous studies on the topic are cited.Chapter 2 Literature ReviewThis chapter reviews theoretical view on product strategy.Chapter 3 Company ProfileThe chapter imparts details on the company.Chapter 4 Research methodologyThis section will mainly describe all the methods and tools used in carrying out the entire research.Chapter 5 Da ta Presentation and AnalysisIt provides presentation of the data collected through charts, tables and graphs for better understanding.Chapter 6 Recommendation and conclusionThe final chapter will make necessary recommendations and the conclusion of the dissertation related to the findings.1.13 ConclusionThis chapter has devoted an overview of the business climate in Mauritius. A brief detail is given on the Diesel Jeans Company in Mauritius and on the textile industry which is one of the main pillars in Mauritian economy. Furthermore the problem statement, the research aim, research objectives and the research question are spelt out for the purpose of the project. The next chapter will review the literature about product strategy and its dimensions.CHAPTER 2Literature review2.1 IntroductionThe aim of this chapter is to provide a detailed explanation of the product strategy concept and how it evolved. Firstly, the selling concept and product is well defined. Furthermore the review describe the important aspects in the product strategy for the success of a product such as the market sectionalisation, product growth, product distinction, product attributes, brand strategy and brand awareness , product packaging, product quality, product price product diversification and customer satisfaction. Textbooks and Journals were used for the study and are considered as secondary information sources (Schindler and Cooper, 2001 p.166).2.2 Marketing conceptAccording to Kotler, Armstrong, Wong and Saunders (1996) the marketing concept is a philosophy. However the central attentions of all activities of an organization are the consumers, as no organization place continue to exist without the support of its consumers. The marketing concept asserts that the organization should make each effort to satisfy the needs and wants of the customers at the same time meet the companys goals and objectives set.The needs, wants, and satisfaction of all customers should constantly be the graduation exercise byplay for every manager and employee. Marketing is not a operation of business, but a view of the entire business seen as the economic organ to provide goods and services (Drucker. 1954, p.38-39). In other words, it is important to understand that the marketing concept refers to sell satisfaction rather than to sell a product or a service only.Kotler (1998) stated that the marketing concept is based on the following pillar, target market, customer needs, integrated marketing, and profit through customer satisfaction. In bound with Kotler, Walker, Boyd, and Larreche, (1992, p.22) asserted that themarketing concept is a useful way of getting a competitive advantage and to achieve company objectives that set off the prep and coordinating all activities for satisfying customers requirements.In summary, marketing concept give the axe be viewed as a consumer focus characterized by the capacity to identify staple fibre requirements of targeted customers. An d satisfying them by constantly providing and bringing superior value supported by a firm which deeply involved it efforts of all practical areas within the organisation by r severallying long-term goals and objectives.2.3 Dimension of ProductA product is anything that can be offered to a market for attention, acquisition, use or inspiration that might satisfy a want or need, which comprised physical objects, services, persons, places, organizations, and ideas (Kotler and Armstrong, 1990, p 226). Consequently a product is the main element in an organization and without a product there is no place, no price, no promotion, and no business as it refers to the most important ingredient of the marketing mix. Similary Assael (1993) asserts that a product is the most fundamental component of the marketing mix. Kotler and Keller (2006) define a product as a bundle of attributes and benefits provided to satisfy the customer.Kotler and Keller (2009, p.358) defined five levels a product.Figur e 1.2 illustrates the five levels of a product.Figure 2.2 Five levels of a producthttp//train-srv.manipalu.com/wpress/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/clip-image00217.jpgSource http//train-srv.manipalu.com/wpress/?p=42740The loading product is the main benefit, service or need satisafaction, required by the customer. The basic product is the physical product, made up of the core product or service and includes all physical aspects of the product or services that are brand name, packaging, styling, features and quality. The expected product is a common set of attributes and conditions where buyers expect when they purchase a product. The augmented product is the consumer services and benefits added which exceed customer requirement such as installations, warranty, after sale services and delivery and credit services. And the potential product cover all the possible augmentation and changes the product might screw in the furture.2.4 Definition of product strategyIn order to launch a produ ct in the marketplace firm needs a well-established product strategy. The executed product strategy must include all that is required in planning, manufacturing, advertising, selling and distributing the product from production to customer service. According to Teece, Pisano and Shuen (1997), a strategy is the technique that an organisation used to positions itself, in order to get a competitive advantage on the marketplace. However the achievement of a strategy is to assure the success of the firm by executing specific tasks at a right time and it should acquire the significant purpose of the product.The term product strategy attempts to capture the decisions made by organisations about product within particular markets. Product strategies are decisions settled to improve products to satisfy market requirements and determine in which way to gain competitive advantage for products (Steinhardt, 2010, p.50). Kotler (1991) asserts that product strategy is the heart of the marketing mix . However product strategy formed part of the product management process.Thus McGrath (1995) states that product strategy is involved in the decision and management of the various levels of a product, product platforms, product lines and individual products. And according to Lehmann and Winer (1994, p. 205-206) the main function of a product strategy is to supply managers the path to pursue for running a business.Taggartand, James and McDermott (1993) asserts that product strategies are composed of the categorisation of a tell apart product by the organisation in respect of the needs and wants of the customers and the satisfaction they aim to obtain from the product. For a product strategy to be successful, it should facilitate the categorization between different aspects in a way to make a product successful. In addition, within an organization a product strategy aid to depict in what way resources should be allocated and demonstrates how products may reach a high market positi oning.Handscombe (1989, p.234) insists on the point that a product strategy should basically describes the firm that the set of product represent. Following this further groundwork is required for whizz product decisions, the plan for product tuition, marketing strategies and development of manufacturing strategy. However duty assignment resource forparticular product, and to incision the market and areas, the product strategy should be able to recognize the priorities of the market.McGrath (2001) broadly describes product strategy and according to him a product strategy is opened to a core strategic vision that demonstrates the directions that an organisation takes. A product strategy is the result of the strategic vision, the platform strategy and the product line strategy and lastly the new product development. However the product platform strategy is obtained from the core strategic vision and the product line strategy referred to the product offering for a specific product platform. And the new product development determines the capabilities for new product offering that is suitable to the product line strategy.The core strategic vision sets the answers to the strategic questions such as, where are we going? How will we get there? Why will we be successful? The first question requires having a balance between the goals and short term objectives. The main purpose of the goals is to set the general directions of movement, whereas objectives state the specific measures of accomplishment. The goals refer to profit, growth, and market share, which potentially can be conflicting. Therefore, the product strategy normally focuses on only one of the goals respectively (McGrath, 2001).The second question refers to the core of the product strategy which involves elements like customer targets, competitive targets, and derivative instrument advantage. Besides the choice of customer targets depends on the nature of the goals and objectives selected when answerin g where an organization wants to go. However, as Krishnan and Karl (2001) assumed that the aim is to boost up the market growth and therefore the targeted group should be from a new segment of population.The third question three is the most important question to be answered for a competitive product strategy, as the answer is related to the differential advantage aspect of the product positioning. A solid product strategy is required to provide concrete arguments for the reason of its success in the light of customers preferences and competitive targets.All the interpretations demonstrate that product strategy is a set of decisions or processes that aim at making the product flourishing. Hence the product strategy should always take into account the market and current state of the company when making the decisions. A product strategy is a management process, consequently a product strategy cannot be dependent on individual manager, it must become a imperious way of working. Hence, product strategy process must be an integrated process within the organization.2.4.1 Scope of product strategyThe level of product strategy referred aset of decisions the product platform determines how to develop the right platform for a global market. Generally different products with attributes are derived from the product platform and they are developed for a product line. Subsequently the product line from the product platform, defines the width, length and depth in every line. And there is also the individual product with its classification and packaging features (Gabrielsson, 2004). According to Meyer and Lehnerd (1997, p.39), A product platform is a set of subsystems and interfaces that form a common structure from which a stream of differential products can be efficiently developed and produced. The function of a platform strategy is always essential for the purpose of a successful implementation and development of product lines.2.4.2 Product lineProduct line is a group o f products that are closely related because they function in a similar manner, are sold to the same customer groups, are marketed through the same types of outlet, or fall within given price ranges (Kotler, Wang, Saunders and Armstrong (2005). According to McGrath (1995, p.61) product line strategy is describes as a temporary time-scaled plan for the chain of developing products within a product line and the strategy is based on four unproblematic functions.The first one describes products variations designed to an explicit segment from a market. The following one, attempted to support strategic advantage for a firm compared to its rivals, to be the first one to launch a product at a particular moment within a lifecycle of a product line. The third one brings direction for product development department and made successful productive response to the requirements of particular markets.Finally, product line strategy facilitates in scheduling the introduction of product development an d provides the apparent time and setting up of each product. However because managerial and financial resources are restricted, the number of product lines are limited as well (Gabrielsson, 2004, p.35).2.5 Market segmentationSmith (1956) first established the concept of the market segment that turn into an essential part of the modern marketing. Market segmentation means dividing a market into distinct groups of buyer who have different needs, characteristics, or behaviours, and who might require separate products or marketing programs (Amstrong, and Kotler, 2011, p.78). Another definition Kanuk and Schiffman (1994) state that market segmentation is the method of breakdown a promising market into different subsets of individual with familiar needs or behaviours and choosing one or more segment to target with a separate marketing mix. Furthermore market segmentation is a driving force that leads an organisation effort towards the finis opportunities. The function of market segmenta tion is to recognise the taxonomy of consumption pattern by dividing a market into several uniformed sub markets. Markets can formulate product strategies, or product positions, tailored specially to the demands of these homogeneous sub-markets (Lin, 2002, p.249). Based on Pollock, Jones, and Brown (1994) point of view, market segmentation should be describes by four uncreated categories stood on the types of variables applied to define submarket like socio-demographic segmentation, geographic segmentation, product-related segmentation, and psychographic segmentations.There are a number of different ways for segmentation, and the three conventional approaches employed to segment the market are mass marketing, differentiated marketing, and niche marketing.Mass marketing is a segmentation strategy for which the market is treated as one segment. Mass marketing is mainly suitable for commodity products but, it is rare that a firm employed this approach (Ferrell, Hartline, and Lucas, 20 02). Since mass marketing is built on a single product or services, however it is not a simple task for firm, since markets contain many different consumers.Differentiated marketing is engaged in partitioning the market into homogeneous submarket which stand on customer requirements and addressing specific marketing plan to the homogeneous submarket. To succeed for a differentiated marketing strategy the behaviors and requirements of consumers for each submarket in particular should be familiar since simultaneously having different needs and characteristics across the different groups. Meanwhile differentiated strategy is the offering of a firm as an original product on the market by evidence that it gives a different advantage over its competitors. Companies that applied this approach must develop an original marketing mix for every subgroup recognised within the market. According to Ferrell, Hartline, and Lucas (2002) both medium and large firms applied differentiated marketing st rategy, for the reason that they have the resource needed to provide various products and promoting many marketing mixes that are not common to reach the requirements of several segments. Finally differentiation is viewed as an art to plan a bundle of significant distinction to differentiate the offering of the organisation from those of its rivals.Kotler et al, (2005) state that niche marketings focal point is to find subgroups of customers. The niche marketing strategy is based on merely a single segment and builds up a marketing plan that matched for the specific subgroup. The niche marketing strategy necessitates an absolute consideration of the requirements of the segment matter because the possibility for the market share to increase in this market gap can surpass the small coat of the market.2.6 Product developmentLittler (1984, p.20) states that product development is ascertaining the attributes that target customers seek in products and developing products to meet the mark et requirements. However product development leads to transform an existing product or its presentation, or formulation of an entire new product that satisfies customer or market niche. Product development is critical for the performance of many companies. The success of product development efforts can determine the viability of companies and economies (Ulrich and Eppinger, 2000).Product development consists of three critical elements, namely strategic processes to specifically address the effective management of product development assets, the selection of a target market and a structured product development process. (Bean and Radford 2000, p.3) According to the above definition there are different levels at which the product development process takes place. The purpose of the process is essentially to identify the market needs and the development of the products in order to suit potential customers.The product development process includes a set of activities required for the form ation and design of a product, from the detection of a market probability to its delivery to the final client. The main focus of the product development process is to convert customer requirements and needs into a design solution. The purpose of the product development process is to make a recipe to produce the product (Reinertsen, 1999). The recipe includes the product, manufacturing process, supply, distribution, and the support systems. (Browning, Deyst, and Eppinger, 2002)The success of product development is vital to the performance of any organisation. And Ulrich and Eppinger (2004) points out that fast and novel product development may be a critical competitive advantages to firms. In addition a successful product development process requires the effective control of the work developed by the persons involved.There are a variety of methodologies for understanding and improving the effectiveness of the product development process. Smith and Morrow (1999) defines product devel opment as a method to transform any objective and market requirements into the information needed to how a product can be manufactured. Even that each product development process is distinctive there are still familiar characteristics that are administered among different tasks.2.7 Product differentiationLancaster (1990) asserts that product differentiation study has drawn significant interest in economics and marketing. Product differentiation is concerned to alter the marketing mix of a product so as to differentiate it from what the competitors is offering. Scheuing (1974) defines differentiation by, adding variations of one product which will compete with it within the same market. According to Kotler (1998) differentiation is the introduction of differential features, quality, style or image of brands as a basis for commanding a premium.A product becomes different at the consumers eye when it has some features, which make it different from others products and services offered b y competitors, of course the product should be unique and difficult to imitate (Murphy, 2007). Firms that employed product differentiation strategy form a perception between some target groups of the product or services offered by the company. And therefore assured that the products or services are somehow different with the value added that is not available from competitors. Consumers may perceive the product sold by an incumbent firm to be superior to that offered by prospective rivals. Based on this perception consumer is willing to pay more for the incumbent firms product (Browning and Zupan, 2003, p.314).Product differentiation is classified into three categories such as, vertical differentiation, crosswise differentiation, and tangled differentiation. Vertical differentiation arises in a market where various goods which are present can be ordered according to their purpose quality from the highest to the lowest. And horizontal product differentiation is termed as products th at have different features which cannot be ordered in an objective way. Features for horizontally differentiated products are often based on colours, styles, and tastes (Piana, 2003).Mixed differentiation is described by vertical and horizontal differentiation. Consequently, mixed differentiation includes products that have distinct quality dimension which is similar to the vertical one and are included diverse characteristics like colour, taste, shapes as well as styles which relate to the horizontal differentiation. And customers pay attention to these prominent aspects when buying a product.Product differentiation is particularly important to undertake any kind of business, because of the economic principles that have been demonstrated time to time again in nearly every market place. If the public perceives no difference between two competing products, then the only possible means of competition is through pricing.2.8 grease strategy and Brand awarenessThe American Marketing Ass ociation (AMA) definition of a brand is a name, term, sign, symbol, or design, or a combination of them, intended to identify the goods and services of one seller or group of sellers and to differentiate them from those of competitors(Keller 2004, p.3). Within this view the author asserts that a brand refers to a product and that each new feature or benefit added in order to differentiate the brand somehow from others products designed to satisfy the same need. According to the definition a brand can be seen, as simple and clear function identifiers.Supporting Kellers view of a brand linking it to the tangibles of the brand, Doyle (2002) states that brand is a particular name, symbol or design or generally an amalgamation of these that is utilized to differentiate a specific p

Hitler Essay examples -- essays research papers

Hitlers Rise to Power Over time there have been many a(prenominal) influential attracters who have changed the course of history. These leaders contained ample leadership qualities, which allowed them to achieve their goals. But their success has also been questioned due to the effects and characteristics of the time period. Some historians believe that the success of these leaders is due to their person characteristics, era new(prenominal)s believe that their success was due to the conditions of the society in which these leaders lived. One leader, whose success is controversial, is Adolph Hitler. Hitlers success can be seen as his own with to his charismatic qualities, military tactics and the holocaust. All three of these topics were original to him and made him a notorious leader and gained him success. Hitlers success can also be due to the horrible conditions in Germany at the time of his rise to power. The failure of the economy, extreme nationalism and the fragile gove rnment of Germany in the 1920s and 30s could also be seen as the reason for Hitlers success(Wepman 98). The end of W.W.I left Germany in economic debt, suffering to survive. The Treaty of Versailles blamed Germany for the war and required them to digest for all the reparations. With many unemployed and homeless, the country was in economic ruins(Heck 120). To try and end their suffering, the German government printed more than money, which in turn caused inflation and more problems. When the Great Depression hit Germany in the early 1930s the German economy was in horrible shape. Many Germans were left unemployed, homeless and practically hopeless. The effect just added to German debts and despair. These economical conditions in Germany created a perfect scenario for Hitler to gain power and influence(Heck 124). With the government in debt and unemployment growing everyday, the Germans were looking for a strong, powerful leader to take control. Hitler promised to get Germany out of debt and help it become a powerful nation again. The German people were quickly influenced by the promises and the Nazi party grew cursorily as Hitler gained power in the government(Wepman 65). TheWeimar Republic began at the end of 1918, two days before the First World War ended. It was not strong from the stand out because it had signed the dreaded Versailles Treaty. People felt Germany had been stabbed in the back by the govern... ...uted then they were forced to work for the Germans(Deichmann 54). When working for the Germans the prisoners were fed very little and many died of sickness or starvation. If the dead bodies were not thrown into a community burial grave, then they were burned in furnaces. These camps were found all over Europe, in Germany, the Netherlands, and Poland, as well as other countries. There were about 12 million deaths with 6 million being political prisoners, the physically and mentally disabled, Gypsies, and Slavs. The other 6 million were Jewish dea ths. Hitlers purification process was obviously against all Anglo Saxon morals and ethics, but was part of his master plan for control. Until his death in 1945, a suicide, which he chose as his fate, Hitler, proved to be an Influential character of charm, charisma and power. He worked himself into power, led a nation into war and executed his plans for a supreme race, no matter how unethical his ideas were. Like a tragic hero, however, he held his own flaw and in the end his own downfall and prostration of power. Hitler found a time where he could easily slide into power, giving a torn apart nation a purpose, goal and a wedlock to build upon.

Dell Computers :: essays research papers

At age 13, Michael Dell was running a mail-order stamp-trading business, accomplished with a national catalog, and grossing $2,000 per month. At 16, he was selling subscriptions to the Houston Post. He enrolled at the University of Texas in 1983 as a premed student but soon became absorbed in computers and started selling PC parts out of his college dorm room. He bought random-access memory (RAM) chips and disk drives for IBM PCs at cost from IBM dealers, who often had excess supplies on hand because they were involve to order large monthly quotas from IBM. Dell resold the components through newspaper ads at 10-15 percent below the regular retail price.By April 1984 sales were running more or less $80,000 per month. Dell dropped out of college and formed a company, PCs Ltd., to sell both PC components and PCs under the brand name PCs Limited. He obtained his PCs by buying retailers surplus stocks at cost, then powering them up with graphics cards, hard disks, and memory before re selling them. His strategy was to sell directly to end users by eliminating the retail markup, Dells new company was commensurate to sell IBM clones at about 40 percent below the price of an IBM PC. The price discounting strategy was successful, attracting price-conscious buyers and producing rapid growth. By 1985, the company was assembling its own PC designs with a few people. The company had 40 employees, and Michael Dell worked 18-hour days. By the end of fiscal 1986, sales had reached $33 million.During the next several years, however, PCs Ltd. was hampered by a pretermit of money, people, and resources. Michael Dell sought to refine the companys business model, add needed production capacity, and build a bigger, deeper management staff and corporate infrastructure while at the same time keeping costs low. The company was renamed Dell Computer in 1987, and the first international offices were opened that same year. In 1988 Dell added a sales force to serve large customers, be gan selling to g all overnment agencies, and became a public companyXraising $34.2 million in its first offering of common stock. gross revenue to large customers quickly became the main part of Dells business. By 1990 Dell Computer had sales of $388 million, a market share of 2-3 percent, and an R&D staff of over 150 people. Michael Dells vision was for Dell Computer to become one of the top three PC companies.